Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for Dec. 1–7

Epoch Watchlist: What to Watch for Dec. 1–7
Ian Kane
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This week, we feature an excellent rendition of Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” and a charming animated family film about an aspiring writer.

New Release

‘Asian Persuasion’

Mickey de los Santos (Dante Basco) is a struggling chef who is losing his wife, fashion firebrand Avery Chua (KC Concepcion). But after he goofs on his divorce papers, he concocts a desperate plan to better himself financially. However, things don’t go as planned when he starts to have feelings for her again.

This charming little romantic comedy showcases the complex dynamics of falling in and out of love. Although it’s about a Filipino-American family, its narrative is relatable to people of all cultures.

Comedy | Drama | Romance Release Date: Dec. 8, 2023 (limited) Director: Jhett Tolentino Starring: Dante Basco, Geneva Carr, Paolo Montalban Running Time: 1 hour, 33 minutes MPAA Rating: R Where to Watch: Theaters Rated: 3.5 stars out of 5

Family Pick

‘Whisper of the Heart’

Fourteen-year-old junior high student Shizuku Tsukishima (Yoko Honna) is a bibliophile who has aspirations of being a writer. To her surprise, she learns that a mysterious boy, Seiji Amasawa (Issei Takahashi), has checked out all of her library books. Thus begins her journey of discovery and perhaps even love.

This is a wholesome tale that features incredible animation which brings life to its charming characters. At its core, it’s an inspiring, heartwarming film that avoids the tropes associated with stories about young people.

Animation | Drama | Family Release Date: Dec. 13, 1996 Director: Yoshifumi Kondo Starring: Yoko Honna, Issei Takahashi, Takashi Tachibana Running Time: 1 hour, 51 minutes MPAA Rating: G Where to Watch: Redbox, Vudu, Max Rated: 4 stars out of 5

One of the Greatest Tragedies Ever Told

‘Hamlet’

Perhaps the greatest cinematic version of “Hamlet,” this epic William Shakespeare tale follows the life of the titular Prince Hamlet (Kenneth Branagh) as he seeks to exact revenge upon his uncle, King Claudius (Derek Jacobi), for murdering his father.

One of the most celebrated tragedies in the English language, his classic tale of revenge is bolstered by an international, star-studded ensemble cast, fantastic costuming, and a rousing score. Just be aware that it contains some sexual content that may warrant parental advisement.

Crime | Drama Release Date: Dec. 25, 1996 Director: Kenneth Branagh Starring: Kenneth Branagh, Julie Christie, Derek Jacobi Running Time: 4 hours, 2 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Where to Watch: Amazon, Vudu, Apple TV Rated: 4.5 stars out of 5

A Rousing War Tale Based on Real Events

‘Objective, Burma!’

This gripping movie follows U.S. Army Capt. Chuck Nelson (Errol Flynn), as he leads a team of paratroopers on a mission to destroy a secret Japanese radar station in Burma.

This is one of the original jungle warfare movies and is packed with sumptuous visuals, gritty action scenes, and a suspenseful storyline about comradery and persevering against overwhelming odds.

Action | Adventure | Drama Release Date: Feb. 17, 1945 Director: Raoul Walsh Starring: Errol Flynn, James Brown, William Prince Running Time: 2 hours, 22 minutes Not Rated Where to Watch: Vudu, Apple TV, Amazon Rated: 3.5 stars out of 5
Ian Kane
Ian Kane
Author
Ian Kane is an U.S. Army veteran, author, filmmaker, and actor. He is dedicated to the development and production of innovative, thought-provoking, character-driven films and books of the highest quality.
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